You can probably use a Soundsmith moving iron cartridge with your built in phono pre, I'm using one myself and find them fantastic.
Recommendations for a modestly priced analog system
I have been listening to digital music only for a number of years. Now I am thinking of adding an analog system. I don't want to go nuts buying expensive components. I just want to get under the proverbial point of diminishing return. I have Cary Audio 98P preamp, VAC phi 200 (planning) and Sound Lab ESL speakers. My budget from turntable to cartridge is $5-7K. I prefer buying used for the best bang for the buck. As I am getting older, I need a no fuss, durable and low maintenance system. Any recommendations?
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There are literally 100’s of great options you can choose from and the advice you are getting is all relevant and useful. I’ll comment on the ops statement ......‘As I’m getting older, I need a no fuss, durable and low maintenance system. I’m also getting older and just did an upgrade to my system that I’m very happy with. Lately, I’ve been buying more and more 45rpm records and my last fully manual turntable was a pain everytime I went back and forth between 33’s and 45’s, manually changing the belt on the spindle. So, I just bought new the Thorens TD 1601 semi automatic turntable, along with a Soundsmith cartridge. Plays great, sounds wonderful and best of all is no fuss, durable low maintenance. And, of course fits perfectly within your budget. |
I have both the EAR 834 and Cary SLP98P with F1 mod. The Cary with the mod and an outboard step up transformer sounds about equal to the EAR. Both great. You can get a Cary upgrade that adds a step up, and Parts upgrades for about $750. A great way to go IMO. I also modded a Cary SLP-05, and it is excellent - but expensive. For a TT, try Salon1 in FL. I got a Pro-ject Signature 10 there for $4500. Add a Hana ML or ART-AT9, and you’ll have a great analog section for your budget. |
@cakids. I also have Cary SLP98P with F1 mod. Cary is asking $500 to change from MM to MC. Is this what you are talking about? Someone mentioned VPI TNT. I see a couple on the market. Quite old-I wonder if they will need motor replacement. https://www.ebay.com/itm/353287715811 https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649683730-complete-vpi-tnt-mk-v-turntable-ortofon-mc-winfield-ti... |
You can straddle the vintage and new worlds with something like the PTP Audio Solid 12. A very sensible re-imagined Lenco... If the budget risestowards $10k there are several excellent modern direct drive tables. I'm in the trade and sell one ( STST from Germany ), or there is the Brinkmann, Technics etc. |
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